scholarly journals Experimental results of pitching moment tests on parabolic-trough solar-collector array configurations

1982 ◽  
Author(s):  
D. Randall ◽  
R. Tate ◽  
D. Powers
Keyword(s):  
Solar Collector ◽  
Experimental Results ◽  
Pitching Moment ◽  
Parabolic Trough ◽  
Parabolic Trough Solar Collector

scholarly journals Experimental Results of Pitching Moment Tests on Parabolic-Trough Solar-Collector Array Configurations

1984 ◽  
Vol 106 (2) ◽  
pp. 223-230
Author(s):  
D. E. Randall ◽  
R. E. Tate ◽  
D. A. Powers
Keyword(s):  
Wind Tunnel ◽  
Solar Collector ◽  
Experimental Results ◽  
Pitching Moment ◽  
Test Results ◽  
Parabolic Trough ◽  
Wind Tunnel Tests ◽  
Array Configuration ◽  
Parabolic Trough Solar Collector ◽  
Shielding Effects

Two wind-tunnel tests were conducted to investigate specifically the pitching moment characteristics of parabolic-trough solar-collector modules deployed within a collector array. The collector modules were located within various rows of a simulated array configuration to investigate shielding effects from upstream collector rows and/or windscreen fences. Selected fence configurations and fence spacing upstream from the initial array row were studied. The test results demonstrate that pitching moment is significantly reduced by shielding provided by upstream fencing or collector rows.

Mean Wind Loading on Parabolic-Trough Solar Collectors

1981 ◽  
Vol 103 (4) ◽  
pp. 313-322 ◽  
Author(s):  
D. E. Randall ◽  
D. D. McBride ◽  
R. E. Tate
Keyword(s):  
Boundary Layer ◽  
Wind Tunnel ◽  
Solar Collector ◽  
Wind Loading ◽  
Design Parameters ◽  
Pitching Moment ◽  
Parabolic Trough ◽  
Wind Force ◽  
Layer Flow ◽  
Parabolic Trough Solar Collector

Two wind-tunnel force and moment tests have been conducted on parabolic-trough solar collector configurations. The two tests were conducted in different flow field environments, one a uniform flow infinite airstream, the second a simulated atmospheric boundary layer flow with the models simulating a ground-mounted installation. The force and moment characteristics of both isolated single-module troughs and of trough modules within array configurations have been defined over both operational and stow attitudes. The influence of various geometric design parameters for collector modules and arrays has been established. Data indicate that forces and in general the pitching moment increase with mounting height and with trough aspect ratio. Collector modules interior to large arrays experience wind force reductions as high as 50–65 percent, while appropriate fences or berms surrounding the arrays can provide exterior modules with protection of this order.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document